and that is what do we do about the tragedies of the sort that struck in newtown, connecticut, to avoid such events in the future. like most americans, we were shocked by what happened. like all americans, we've been discussing all of the various options available to protect our children, and at this point we would like to share our thinking with you. and for that purpose i'd like to introduce wayne louisiana pierre, our executive vice next week we will be available to any of you, so contact us, please, at that point. thank you very much. wayne? >> good morning. the national rifle association, four million mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, joined the nation in horror, outrage, grief and earnest prayer for the families of newtown, connecticut. who have suffered such an incomprehensible loss as a result of this unspeakable crime. out of respect for the families and until the facts are known, the nra has refrained from comment. while some have tried to exploit tragedy for political gain, we have remained respectively silent. now we must speak for the safety of our nation's children. be